The Four Most-Unhealthy Halloween Candies

The average American eats 24 pounds of candy every year. And I'm not sure if you've heard, but . . . candy is bad for you. Just to put it in perspective:

--A pack of Skittles has more sugar than two scoops of Haagen-Dazs ice cream. And there are the same number of calories in nine Twizzlers as there are in a Wendy's Double Stack Burger.

--So if you want to avoid the worst-of-the-worst this Halloween, here's a list from "Men's Health" of the four worst Halloween candies, and what you should eat instead . . .

THE WORST "FUN SIZE" CANDY BAR: BUTTERFINGER. There's no faster way to swallow 100 calories and 4 grams of fat. Go with a 3 Musketeers instead. The fun size bars have 63 calories and half the fat.

THE WORST FRUITY CANDY: AIRHEADS. They're basically sugar, artificial flavors, and partially hydrogenated oil . . . which means they have trans fat. Give out Dum Dum lollipops instead. Kind of lame compared to Airheads, but they have half the calories.

THE WORST CHEWY CANDY: CARAMELS. Each one has about 40 calories and more than one gram of fat. And you never just eat one. Instead, have a "Now And Later." They have less than half the calories and almost no fat.

THE WORST NOVELTY CANDY: REESE'S PEANUT BUTTER PUMPKINS. They're like regular Peanut Butter Cups, but bigger . . . which is why they're so amazing. But they also have almost two-thirds more calories.

--So stick with Reese's BITE SIZE Peanut Butter Cups. You can eat four, and it's still better for you than eating one Peanut Butter Pumpkin.

Six Ways To Stop Wasting Food

If you want to stop wasting food, obviously step one is eating what you put on your plate. But if you REALLY want to get serious, here are six tricks from "Country Living" on how you can make the most out of your groceries . . .

#1.) STORE COTTAGE CHEESE OR SOUR CREAM UPSIDE DOWN. It creates a vacuum that keeps bacteria from growing. Just make sure the lid's definitely on tight before you try it.

#2.) USE PAPER TOWELS TO LINE THE BOTTOM OF THE VEGETABLE DRAWER IN YOUR REFRIGERATOR. They'll absorb the extra moisture, which is what makes vegetables rot.

#3.) BEFORE YOU PUT A BLOCK OF CHEESE AWAY, SPREAD BUTTER ON THE END YOU CUT FROM. It helps seal in the moisture so you won't have to cut off a dry chunk next time.
--The only problem is, you save slices of cheese by wasting butter. And spreading butter on a block of cheese definitely won't make it any healthier.

#4.) MAKE VEGETABLES CRUNCHIER WITH A BOWL OF ICE WATER. You can make carrots, celery, or radishes crunchy again by putting them in a bowl of ice water along with a slice from a raw potato.

#5.) NEVER THROW AWAY HONEY. It doesn't go bad. So if it looks cloudy, it just means it's crystallizing. But you can turn it back into honey by running the bottle under hot water.

#6.) DON'T SEPARATE BANANAS UNTIL YOU'RE READY TO EAT THEM. They last longer if you keep them in a bunch.

Does It Embarrass Your Dog If You Put Him In A Halloween Costume?

We're less than a week away from Halloween. And with it comes the annual dilemma: Do you want to put an adorable but humiliating costume on your dog?

--The question is, of course, if dogs can feel embarrassment. Different experts have different opinions on the matter. Here's what some of them have to say.

--"The Pet Psychic" Sonya Fitzpatrick: "They feel everything. And they know when people laugh at them. I talk to thousands of animals . . . it really hurts their feelings."

--Another pet psychic, Patrice Ryan: "Pets know they're loved by their owner, and then the owner is allowing people to look at them and have a good laugh. It sends conflicting messages to the pet. So the pet is not really happy with that."

--Val Heart, animal communicator: Val isn't sure if dogs can be embarrassed or not, but, quote, "a lot has to do with the proper training to wear clothes that they've received and the responses or rewards they get when they're wearing it."

--Tamar Geller, animal behaviorist: "Dogs don't like to stand out because of their wild heritage: Wolves singled out from the pack were more susceptible to attack. They've never been taught to associate being dressed up with pleasure."

--Bonnie Beaver, a professor of veterinary medicine at Texas A&M: "If they're unhappy, [they're] probably reacting to the costumes themselves or the limited mobility they have when dressed up."

--The verdict? Four experts are against dressing up your dog . . . although only the psychics think the costumes embarrass the animal. One expert says that if you dress them up, you'd better give them a lot of treats. Now you know.

"Me" Time

Me time can be restorative as sleep. Savoring even a few minutes of it adds fuel to your being, enhancing your energy for the rest of the day," says Carol Kauffman, Ph.D., assistant clinical professor at Harvard Medical School in Boston. "Indulging can even increase your performance at work." To savor stolen moments, remember this:

Start small. Close your eyes while listening to soothing tunes. Any activity can give you pep "if it calms and connects you to your core self," she says.

Relaxing daily is as essential as going on an annual vacation. "View each 24 hour period as a microcosm of your year, and take a break," Kauffman says.

You're worth it. "You invest time in people you love, so you should be one of them," she advises.

What you need to know about fruit

I got this email from a listener and knew I had to share it with you. All of this info comes from Dr. Oz.

We all think eating fruit means just buying fruit, cutting it up and popping it into our mouths. It's not that easy. It's important to know how and when to eat fruit.

What's the correct way to eat fruit?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUIT AFTER A MEAL! FRUIT SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

Eating fruit like that plays a major role in detoxifying your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD.

Let's say you eat two slices of bread, then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it's prevented from doing so.

In the meantime, the whole meal rots and ferments, and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach, and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil.

Eat your fruit on an empty stomach, or before your meal! You've heard people complain: Every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc. This will not happen if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. Fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas. Hence, you bloat!

There's no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruit becomes alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruit, you have the Secret of Beauty, Longevity, Health, Energy, Happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT the concentrated juice from the cans. Don't drink juice that has been heated. Don't eat cooked fruit; you don't get the nutrients at all. You get only the taste. Cooking destroys all of the vitamins.

Eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit-fast to cleanse your body. Eat fruit and drink fruit juice for just 3 days, and you will be surprised when your friends say how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty, and a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E and fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange!

AN APPLE a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants and flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C, thereby helping to lower the risk of colon cancer, heart attack and stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits and protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

EATING 2 - 4 ORANGES a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent and dissolve kidney stones, and reduce the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. Also a key source of lycopene, the cancer-fighting oxidant. Also found in watermelon: Vitamin C and Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene, good for your eyes.

Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer!

Can you believe this? For those who like to drink cold water, this applies to you. It's nice to have a cold drink after a meal, however, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you've just consumed, which slows digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks.

HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE

Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they're asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Be careful, and be aware. The more we know, the better our chance to survive.

I've got no words for how awesome I think this is....

Celebrate Being Single!

If you've recently gone through a breakup, you might be working through some pain and not have a lot to celebrate ... until now. It's National Singles Week! Time to celebrate the fact that you're not stuck in a bad relationship and that you can do whatever you want and date whoever you want! According to YourTango.com, here are some reasons why being single rocks:

• More Free Time -- This is the no-brainer. Relationships are a major time-suck. You now have time for hobbies, laundry, working out and just goofing off all day with nowhere to be.

• Opportunities for Love -- Even if you don't have anyone in your sights right now, don't worry. When you find someone, you'll get to fall in love again. It'll be fun and exciting.

• Your Time Is Yours -- When you're part of a couple, it's considerate and pretty normal to check in with your significant other to see what they're doing and if they want to join you in what you're planning on doing. When you're single, you're free to do what you want, when you want and how you want -- without any need to run your plans by anyone else.

• Free to Be Weird -- We all have little weird behaviors that make us happy that we try to hide around other people. No more need to keep your guard up. Just relax and be yourself.

What Women REALLY Want in a Guy

When it comes to finding the perfect husband, attractive women really are pickier. They want a handsome, good-looking man to someone who will be loyal and devoted to them. David Buss from The University of Texas at Austin and Todd Shackelford from Florida Atlantic University have answered that age-old question: What do women want? These are the four qualities attractive women want in a man:

Good genes, reflected in desirable physical traits
Economic resources
The desire to have children and good parenting skills
Loyalty and devotion

Five Secrets You Should Never Keep

Everyone has a little something to hide --but some things are so serious they absolutely must be shared with your significant other. The love gurus over at redbook magazine discovered a handful of secrets that you should never keep to yourself!

1. You've Got Money Issues. Remember the golden rule of communication --often couples don't realize the other is getting in deeply in debt because they simply don't talk.

2. There's a Chance Your Relationship Is In Trouble. JENNINE ESTES --a marriage and family therapist --suggests bringing up "scary feelings" like boredom or resentment before any real damage is done. Speak up quickly --even if it hurts.

3. You're Unhappy in Bed. "Faking it" may be an easy way out, but it's just not fair. Chances are the man in your life will be supportive --and will do almost anything to please you.

4. Something's Up With Your Health. Your well-being affects your entire family --open up and you could be surprised how the team will rally around you.

5. You've Had a Traumatic Past. People hold onto their secrets due to our good friend fear. Too bad hiding information can create distance in your relationship --open up, expose the scars and you'll probably see some major benefits.

6 things your body does that science can't explain...

From Cracked.com, here they are:

Yawning - it doesn't actually seem to serve any purpose. And it's strangely contagious.

Adolescence - Some believe teenagers were awkward balls of nerves and nose grease as early as the Homo erectus era over a million years ago, while others think it's a much more recent development.

Placebo Effect - A guy says he's feeling nauseous, you give him a sugar pill and tell him it'll cure it. He stops worrying about his stomach, thus the stomach calms down.

Dreaming - We really know very little about what causes them or what purpose they serve (Even though human beings are obsessed with dissecting and interpreting dreams).

Blushing - Some scientists, noting that women blush more than guys, have suggested that blushing developed specifically so they could prove they were honest and submissive towards men.

Pubic Hair - You're on your own on this one!

AI Auditions Online!

"American Idol" is now holding auditions online. Fox is celebrating the show's 10th anniversary by accepting videos from budding young pop stars at MySpace. The entries can't be longer than 40 seconds, and you have to choose from a list of approved songs.

Those include "Ain't No Sunshine" by BILL WITHERS, BARRY MANILOW's "Copacabana" and KEITH URBAN's "Kiss A Girl." Fox says some of the best entries will get an-in personal tryout in Los Angeles.

You have until October 6th to get their video audition uploaded, and you must be between the ages of 15 and 28.

Learn more a MySpace.com/americanidol.

What chefs never tell you:

C'mon, admit it; you've always wanted to know what the chef's know about dining out. Who better to ask? The people at the Food Network did and here are some highlights:

--Chefs are picky eaters; most in the survey said they hate liver, sea urchin, tofu, eggplant, and oysters.

--When eating out in other restaurants, chefs say they avoid pasta and chicken. They're often the most overpriced (and least interesting) on the menu.

--Appropriate tip: 20 percent, which is what chef's say they leave when they eat out (but 90 percent said it's fair to penalize bad waiters with a smaller tip).

--Menu "specials" are often experimental dishes. Only five percent said it's a way of using up old ingredients. Most use specials to try out new ideas or serve seasonal ingredients.

--Favorite restaurant: The French Laundry in California's Napa Valley. Dinner for ONE: $240. Before wine.

--Favorite fast food joint: Wendy's.

--Critics are more likely to get special treatment before movie stars do, by a 71-to-63 percent margin

--Roaches are more common than you think. Three-quarters admit they've seen roaches in the kitchen, but 85 percent give their kitchens an eight out of 10 for cleanliness.

--Only 13 percent have seen a cook do unsavory things to a customer's food.

--Chefs cook when they’re sick. Half admitted they did. It's not uncommon to get cut on the job, get stitches and come back to work.

--The five-second rule actually applies. One quarter said they'd pick up food that dropped on the floor and cook it.

--Waiters try to influence the order, according to 95 percent of the chefs.

--Restaurants mark up wine by a lot more than you think --up to 2½ times what it would cost in a wine store.

Seven Secrets of Low-Stress Families:

Life should be easy when you have a mommy, daddy, the pitter-patter of little feet and the family dog all under one roof, right? Unfortunately, that's not always the case! Redbook magazine reports researchers from UCLA went on a mission to find how families with two working parents, at least two kids and a mortgage manage to keep it all together --peacefully!

1. Low-Stress Couples Don't Divvy Up the Chores. The key word here is "we" --no keeping score, no keeping track --happy households are focused on their common goals and partners pitch in without being asked.

2. Low-Stress Families Find Small Moments of Togetherness. While "bonding" may be nice to look at on the front of a Hallmark card, the true connections don't have to made on family vacations at Disneyland. Taking time to help out with homework, brushing your little girls' hair or making everyday tasks like laundry fun can go a long way.

3. Low-Stress Parents are Role Models --Not Pals. When mom and dad are patient and supportive of one another the kids can feel it and will be more inclined to act the same. Furthermore, parents who delegated chores to children as opposed to asking which ones they'd prefer suffered through fewer tantrums.

4. Low-Stress Moms Make Dinner From Scratch. Researcher MARGARET BECK discovered that almost every family spends an hour getting supper on the table, whether or not they're using "convenience" foods. Have a picky eater in the house? Put the little ones to work --Ms. Beck found that kids who assisted in food preparation always ate what was served and the mood in the house was lighter with a little team effort.

5. Low-Stress Moms Take Five Minutes of Me Time. The working woman is under a lot of pressure, but unwinding for just a few minutes is a key to keeping mom healthy.

6. Low-Stress Families Watch TV Together. If the gang wants to kick back with some tube time, don't sweat it! Believe it or not --laughing together over a sitcom or checking out your favorite sports teams can be a great way to bond.

7. Low-stress Families Embrace Daily Rituals. Routine and continuity helps families thrive. Reading bedtime stories every night, saying what you're thankful at dinner or any "little moment" repeated daily makes life comforting.

Seven Ways You Can Increase Your Child's Success in School

School is back in session for lots of kidlings around the country, so how are you gonna help your child tackle another year of new experiences? The parenting gurus over at Shine!.com put together this list:

1. Make Sure Your Kids Get Enough Sleep. Lack of z's can seriously impact a child's ability to learn and perform. Set a bedtime routine, stick to it every night and shut off the cell phone, TV and computer at least thirty minutes before bed.

2. Applaud Their Efforts the Right Way. Studies from Colombia University show how you praise your kids can enhance --or impede--their achievement. Rather than emphasize getting straight A's, ask how hard they're working. This will encourage their persistence and they'll be less likely to blame bad grades on lack of ability.

3. Respect Their Learning Style. There are eight kinds of intelligence or, simply put --ways people learn. Pay attention to which type your child gravitates to, even if it's not the way YOU would do it.

4. Pay Attention to Their Peers. Peer pressure exists --but it's not always bad. Keep tabs on their friends' grades and talk, talk, talk about the future and all the possibilities. One Ohio State University study found that kids are more likely to have buddies who plan to attend college if they have a warm, positive relationship with their parents.

5. Make Family Meals a Must. Get everyone together at the dinner table and you'll be poising your precious bundles of joy to make good choices. Colombia University researchers discovered kids who eat with mom and dad are less likely to use drugs, alcohol, develop eating disorders and achieve higher grades. What you have really doesn't matter --but turn off the phone and TV so you can enjoy one another's company. Are you schedules headed in every different direction? If time doesn't allow a group supper, shoot for a late-evening snack or dessert.

6. Cut the Stress. Conflict within the home impedes a child's ability to learn. "De-stress" your babies with long walks, group stretches or movie night. Do you have a sticky wicket in the house? Teach them its okay to walk away from an argument, refuse to engage with a "screamer" and watch for warning signs that someone's about to come unglued.

7. Tailor Expectations to Your Child's Abilities. It's natural to imagine your mini-me is the next Rhodes Scholar --but every child is different. Approach school like a rubber band --gently stretch but don't snap! While a neighbor may brag about test scores, grades or their offspring's gift of intelligence, the apple of your eye will still go on to do amazing things. Remember this mantra: "Tailor thy parenting only to thy child."

Domestic Habits That Annoy Women

Men. They drive us crazy, but we woman can't live with them and we can't live without them can we? Whatever the reason, men have a unique and sometimes gleeful way of irritating the ones they love most. Here are the 10 most annoying things men do when living with women. If you can think of more, feel free to comment below!

1. Men leave a wake of empty containers
2. They splash the mirror when they brush their teeth
3. Leave hair in the sink after shaving
4. Use 10 drinking glasses a day instead of one
5. Pee on the toilet seat
6. Litter the ground with laundry
7. Don't do house work
8. Burp and fart indiscriminately
9. Develop a martyr complex when sick
10. They channel surf rapidly (and seemingly aimlessly)

What's Your Purse-onality?

One of the most vital pieces of a woman's wardrobe is her purse. And what's inside your bag provides a wealth of clues about her:

Colorful clutch -- Bright-eyed and energetic, you bustle through life with a charming effervescence that draws others to your circle in droves. You overcome most of life's pitfalls with a cheerful grace, and you easily pump up the spirits of family and friends who are feeling blue.

Couture -- You're a go-getter who wouldn't be caught dead without your designer duds. Sure your bag may be costly, but you're a self-confident sort who knows you deserve only the best. Your belief in your own abilities makes you a natural-born leader, and others trust your judgement in important situations.

Backpack -- You're an unpretentious woman who's physically fit and ready for whatever life brings. You're never more alive than when you're enjoying outdoor activities that challenge your endurance, but your loved ones are also vital to your happiness. Wherever you go, your family unit will always be included.

Carryall -- There's a cornucopia of items in your bag -- from over-the-counter drugs to a complete makeup kit. You're a practical woman who's prepared for any contingency, and your mother hen approach is just fine with your family and friends who thrive on your nurturing warmth.

Shoulder bag -- You have your eye on the man chance, and you believe that hard work coupled with burning ambition will carry you to the top. People admire your drive because you get ahead with out hurting others. You're also a witty conversationist who is a welcome addition to any gathering.

What your dreams mean....

Ever wake up in the morning and wonder what that strange dream you had last night was all about? Dr. Martin J. Aronson, professor of psychiatry at Columbia University, says the meanings of dreams vary tremendously, but the interpretations of certain dream symbols is universal and easy to translate to your everyday life. Here are six of the most common themes, and how they could relate to you:

Caves -- Tunnels, doorways, bureau drawers or mossy caves represent a desire for affection of the need to get closer to a female in your life.

Running -- Being chased means you are running away from something that is too difficult or you are avoiding a confrontation.

Aliens -- Dreaming of creatures from outer space can be an indication that some outside force is playing a role in your life and you are uncertain of your surroundings or something that is going on in your life.

Water -- A calm stream of water stands for security, safety and comfort. Turbulent water on the other hand can mean there is a disruptive force in your current environment or that you feel overwhelmed.

Falling -- A drop generally means instability in your life but a free fall with no clear beginning or end represents a lack of connection the world around you.

Nightmares -- Contrary to what most people think ongoing nightmares are nothing to worry about.

And the celebrity you dream of reveals changes you may have in your life, if you dream of...

Madonna -- You'd like to make a change in your life.

Johnny Depp -- You want to make more intellectual, independent choices.

Courtney Love -- You'd like to be more gutsy.

Robert Downey Jr. -- You fear your own talent is somehow being squandered.

Britney Spears -- You're unsure how you should present yourself to the world.

Ben Affleck -- You want to be more carefree and adventurous.

Simon Cowell -- You fear that you're inadequate.

Sick of it All?

Being sick is terrible. You look horrible, feel bad and have to blow your sick days recuperating. Sick of it all? Here's how to wage germ warfare at the office.

Close your mouth. Germs travel through the air. In fact, they can fly as far as 30 feet. So if you're forced to sit near someone who's coughing, wheezing, or sneezing, keep your mouth shut; it's better to breathe through your nose where tiny hairs act as filters to keep out the germs.

Wash your hands. You get infected by touching hard surfaces: the coffee maker, the copy machine, and elevator buttons, where filthy, germ-encrusted co-workers have inadvertently left behind viral critters that can live for hours. A study by Purdue University says that the fix is to wash your hands often with antibacterial soap and warm water.

Hit the gym. Moderate exercise two or three times a week will help ward off a cold: A mellow workout increases the circulation of your immune cells, boosting the chances that they'll collide with and vanquish the virus.

Get a window seat. You want to avoid stagnant, germ-laden air at all costs, so get to the conference room early for meetings and snag yourself a spot near an open window or an air vent.
If you must share an office with a bonafide sicko request a desk fan.

Have a party with your buds. More friends, fewer colds, according to a Carnegie Mellon University study, because your pals help you deal with immune-system-suppressing stress. And a couple of stiff drinks a day seem to help keep the colds at bay. (Some docs say alcohol hurts a cold virus's ability to reproduce.) But the bartender should cut you off after two so you don't get dehydrated.

Kiss someone hot. Good news: Lipsmashing is still safe, since 90 percent of cold viruses lurk in your snot, not your spit.

Three Beauty Wives Tales to Ignore!

1. Eating Chocolate and Greasy Foods Makes You Break out. Sorry, unless you actually rub the pizza on your face this probably won't happen. DR. DIANE BERSON admits there are a few foods that can increase the risk of blemishes --the levels of iodine in sushi, shellfish and soy sauce have been known to cause inflammation and clog pores.

2. Dry Skin Causes Wrinkles. Moisturizer won't solve all your aging issues. Collagen breaks down far below the surface of the skin, but keeping your complexion soft will relieve the look of fine lines. If you're serious about caring for your precious looks the best thing to do is grab your sunscreen, preferably one that contains vitamin C.

3. Cold Water Will Shrink Your Pores. This is thanks to genetics, not H20. One tip you can follow is to keep those pores clean --they look bigger when they're clogged with oil and dead skin and any product with salicylic acid will wash them right out.

LIVE & LOVE LIKE NEWLYWEDS

The following list is from Dr. Schwontkowski's book "Partners for Life -- 50 Ways to Keep Your Love Honeymoon Fresh Forever."

Plan and serve foods and beverages your lover likes. There are several ways to a man's heart, the stomach is one of them. The same holds true for women, and savvy guys and gals will take advantage by taking the time to prepare those favorite snacks, meals and refreshments as a token of their love.

Don't be stingy with sex. And try to select love locations that your partner likes or finds adventurous and exciting. You don't always have to "go to bed."

Talk with your lover, and prepare yourself in advance for conversation that lasts awhile. If you have trouble starting a conversation, rely on topics that everyone is interested in and knows a little something about: Food, fond memories and friendly gossip come to mind.

Compliment your lover honestly, lavishly and often, both when you are alone and with other people. Whenever your lover does something that you appreciate, say so. Make sure you find something to praise every day, even if it's just "Thanks for putting the cap back on the toothpaste, dear," or "My don't you look good in that sweater."

Touch your lover's "oohhh baby" spots -- even when you're in public. Be discreet, but send a strong signal that you can't keep your mind -- or hands -- off your sweetie. Don't think you have to be a centerfold to use this strategy -- you don't.

Give your lover a stress-busting massage every day. With practice you can go head to toe in five minutes, bonding all the way.

Have you written any love letters lately? If so, keep it up. If not start now -- and don't stop.

Say, "I love you," at least twice a day and even more when you can squeeze the words in. Everyone needs to feel loved and needed. Enough said.

Regularly set aside time to romance your lover for hours on end. Not to guys: If you're a "two-minute man" and don't know how to maintain for hours, there are plenty of excellent how-to books and manuals. This doesn't include regular morning or late-afternoon walks together, which are highly recommended for your health and for bonding as a couple.

Make your lover laugh every day. Practical jokes dished out in the spirit of fun can work wonders for a relationship. Or you can get up a few minutes early and find the best comic strip in the newspaper you can share.

Work Out Right at Your Desk!

Can't find a spare moment to hit the gym? No worries --sneak in a workout at the office! The fitness pros over at Shine!.com suggest doing performing these sweat-free exercises while you're waiting for a client, on the phone or ditch the coffee break for a quick calorie burn.

--Wall Sit. Just like the name says, plop your hind quarters somewhere besides the chair while reading, opening mail or talking on the phone.

--The Plank. Hit the floor and prop youself up on your elbows with the rest of your body straight. This is a total toner and you only need 20-100 seconds to feel the burn.
--Jumping Jacks. Activate your brain and get the blood pumping!

--Heel Rises. These are probably the most incognito move on the list. Lift up and down while waiting for the elevator or during that hour-long conference call. Put your feet in a "V" for an extra bonus for the hind quarters.

--Butt Squeezes. No one will know you're tightening those glutes. Hold your cheeks in tight for ten-second stretches.

--Stand Up and Sit Down. Do this as many times as possible while tucking in your buns and abs.

You are what you eat....

Did you know that what you typically put on your plate speaks volumes about your personality? Discover what your choices mean by completing this quiz and find out more about you:

Your typical breakfast is:

A. Hot cereal with blueberries.
B. An English muffin.
C. Eggs and toast.

Your favorite sauce over pasta is:

A. Garlic and olive oil.
B. Alfredo.
C. Marinara.

You eat most of your food:

A. At lunchtime.
B. At night.
C. By munching throughout the day.

When you're nervous, you tend to eat:

A. Nuts, chips or fruit.
B. Candy, cake or cookies.
C. Ice Cream.

Analysis

Mostly "a" - You're a practical person who opts for good nutrition that tastes delicious, too. You're also quite confident in the kitchen your favorite room in the house where you prepare innovative recipes for family and friends.

Mostly "b" - You're so energetic and open to new things that your food choices are an eclectic mix. You're more concerned with enjoying yourself than worrying about consequences. You figure pleasing your palate is worth some extra exercise.

Mostly "c" - You're wise enough to eat nutritious foods while feeling no guilt over an occasional indulgence. Being so conscious of what it takes to stay healthy makes you a happy person who's less likely to ever become overweight.

Happy 4th of July!

So I managed to walk out of the house today wearing one black and one blue flip flop and only noticed it when it was too late to go back and change. And my finger smells like bacon and I didn't eat bacon today. Can this day get any stranger?

Happy 4th of July!

Wait! What?!?

It's July 1st already?!? Where has this year gone?

HAHAHA. And that's what I think about this.

Poor lady, but this is pretty funny stuff:

http://www.todaysbigthing.com/2010/06/07

This makes me SICK. As in ANGRY sick.

What kind of parent introduces their baby to smoking? SO, SO, SO WRONG!

Travel Fail

It's travel season and some guys made a video of of travel fails. We all hope these things don't happen to us, but you have to admit some of them are pretty funny:

FIVE BAD HABITS YOU WANT TO KEEP

Watching television can make you smarter. Gossiping can make you less critical of yourself. And coffee can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Yes, some bad habits -- in moderation -- may actually be good for you. Ladies Home Journal reports that some bad habits can have surprisingly good effects. Here are five that get a bad rap, but can be good for you.

Television -- The good: When you watch shows that exercise your mind, it can actually make you smarter. Some shows can give you a cognitive workout, while others will encourage you to reflect on your marriage and family life. Still others will almost always teach you something new. The bad: If you turn into a couch potato and watch TV excessively while your family does other things, it's a problem. Sitting in front of the TV for too long can drain your energy. If you watch more than two hours a day, it's time to dial down the habit.

Facebook -- The good: Facebook can help you deepen relationships and connect with people from your past with whom you long ago lost touch. It can be a valuable resource for information, too. Posting a message that you need the name of a good plumber or tips for planting a vegetable garden can result in information you would not have otherwise received. The bad: When you spend so much time on Facebook that you neglect your work, family or household chores, you may need to restrict your use by building it into your schedule. Be disciplined and only check in at those times.

Gossiping -- The good: When we gossip about other people, it can make us less critical of our own lives. A celebrity's third trip to rehab or the neighbor's failed marriage can make you realize you're doing just fine. Gossip, which is human nature, also relieves stress and can create a culture of closeness. The bad: If you purposely spread vicious stories about someone else that could be potentially damaging, it's time to stop. Too much gossiping can make you seem insecure or egocentric.

Coffee -- The good: Regular coffee consumption is actually good for you! Numerous studies have shown multiple health benefits, including a lower risk for stroke, dementia, Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes, liver cancer and gallstones. The bad: If you indulge in fancy, high-calorie java drinks, they can make you fat since they're not only packed with caffeine, but also calories. And pregnant women shouldn't drink coffee at all because it can increase the risk of miscarriage.

Being Messy -- The good: So what if your desk is a pile of papers and the junk drawer is so crammed with stuff it won't open? Moderately disorganized people also tend to be more creative and efficient than those who are obsessively neat. The bad: When the boss looks at you like your desk is a fire hazard or you can't find your favorite jeans in your closet, it's time to clean up. Being messy is fine--to a point. Complete disorder is a problem. Schedule weekly tidy-up sessions to keep things under control.

Reminder

Gary Coleman Passes Away

Sitcom actor and tabloid staple Gary Coleman, 42, died on Friday (May 28) at 12:05 p.m. (Mountain Time), after slipping into a critical condition on Thursday following an earlier fall in which he hit his head.

The actor, whose congenital kidney disease halted his childhood growth at an early age, had suffered a series of health setbacks in recent years. He was admitted to the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo on Wednesday after hitting his head in an unexplained fall and had reportedly slipped into critical condition by the next day. On Friday, doctors announced that he was unconscious and on life support in a coma due to an intracranial hemorrhage, which results from a broken or ruptured blood vessel causes bleeding inside the skull.

"Family members and close friends were at his side when life support was terminated," read a hospital statement according to a People magazine report on the actor, who had moved to Utah in 2005. "Family members express their appreciation and gratitude for the support and prayers that have been expressed for Gary and for them."

Born in Zion, Illinois, on February 8, 1968, Coleman was adopted as an infant by a local couple. He was diagnosed with an autoimmune dysfunction called focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, a congenital kidney disease that stunted his growth (he was 4'8") and required two kidney transplants as well as daily dialysis.

Coleman began modeling at age 5, after writing a pitch letter to a local Montgomery Ward store in an effort to get work, which also resulted in gigs for McDonald's and Hallmark. Discovered by a talent scout for sitcom legend Noman Lear, who cast him in a never-produced revival of "The Little Rascals," Coleman began his acting career in 1974 with brief appearances on "Medical Center," followed by roles in the sitcoms "The Jeffersons" and "Good Times."

He landed the part of a lifetime as Arnold Jackson in the 1978 sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes," in which he played the apple-cheeked, adorable adopted black son of a wealthy white Manhattan family. Coleman won over America during the show's eight-year run with his charming innocence and signature wisecracking catchphrase, "Whatchu talkin' 'bout Willis?" aimed at his older brother, played by fellow troubled teen actor Todd Bridges. At the height of the show's popularity, the child star was making almost $100,000 an episode.

Coleman failed to capitalize on the success of the "Strokes," and his career petered out via roles in dud movies such as "On the Right Track" and 1983's "Jimmy the Kid." He continued to get sporadic TV work on shows ranging from "227" to "Martin" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," but spent much of the past two decades appearing in B-movie schlock such as "The Curse of Monkey Island," "The Flunky," "Church Ball" and last year's mockumentary "Midgets vs. Mascots."

As his professional career faded, Coleman became famous for being famous, suing his parents for misappropriation of his trust fund, claiming that they drained his $18 million in career earnings from him, leaving him penniless as an adult. He pleaded no contest in 1999 to disturbing the peace after punching a female autograph seeker in California, just a year after allegedly striking a pedestrian with his truck following an argument outside a Salt Lake City bowling alley.

In addition to announcing a 2000 run for a U.S. Senate seat from California as part of the HECK (Homelessness, Education, Crime and Killers) platform, he ran for governor in the state in 2003, where he finished eighth, barely edging out fellow pseudo-celebs including porn star Mary Cary, melon-smashing comedian Gallagher and famous-for-being-famous pinup Angelyne.

Later in life, he was forced to work as a security guard on a movie set in 2008 when acting gigs dried up. He got married that year to then-22-year-old Shannon Price, though the union was rocky, landing the couple on the syndicated "Divorce Court" show. He was hospitalized in Los Angeles for undisclosed reasons in January, then again in February after suffering a seizure on the set of the TV show "The Insider."

Janet Jackson chops off her hair

Janet Jackson just turned 44 and celebrated by showing off a chic, much shorter 'do in London on Wednesday.
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Introducing The 2012 London Olympic Mascots

Alright, so, there is not a lot to be said here.

These are the official mascots for the upcoming 2012 Olympics in London.

Their names are Wenlock and Mandeville.

The "characters" were named after the birthplace of the Paralympic Games, Stoke Mandeville hospital in Buckinghamshire and the village of Much Wenlock in Shropshire, which hosted a precursor to the modern Olympic Games in the 19th century.

Saving Private Ryan DVD Recall

Ever heard of a DVD being recalled? The Hollywood Reporter says 100,000 copies of a special edition of "Saving Private Ryan" are being recalled because of an audio problem during the mastering process which damaged the Blu-ray copies of the film. New copies should be out by next Tuesday, and if you have one of the damaged copies, you can call (888) 370-8621 to get a replacement.

"So baby, what's your blood type?"

It might be a cheesy line, but at some point in your life, someone's probably asked you "What's your sign?" But in Japan, they're asking “What’s your blood type?”

Some Japanese people believe your blood type determines your personality. And just as some people follow horoscopes, the Japanese believe you can learn a lot about your life, work and love by your blood group. An article from BBC News points to a girl who said she had a bad experience with a guy who was a type B. She now steers clear of men with a B blood type, generalizing that men with B blood are disorganized.

Japanese women’s magazines offer a little help for those looking for love. Many claim that A types are dependable and self sacrificing, but reserved and worry a lot. If you’re looking for someone decisive and confident, look for someone with type O blood. A-Bs are known to be well balanced, clear-sighted and logical, but also high maintenance and distant. And then there are those with B type blood, said to be flamboyant free thinkers, but selfish.

One man says he was even asked by a prospective employer what was his blood type. He was a bit hesitant to admit he is a type B, but says he got the job anyway. Turns out she was also a B, but couldn’t hold her alcohol so at company parties she sent home all the workers with type B blood early because she didn’t want them getting drunk. In Japan, it’s called burahara, which means blood group harassment.

It’s such a big deal in Japan that even the politicians are using their blood types as a selling point during elections. The last Prime Minister revealed he is a type A on his official profile on the Internet. If he thought the favored blood type would give him a boost the polls, it didn’t work. He ended up losing.

For the record, my blood type is O ~Traci

What Moms Really Want for Mother's Day

To have my 14-year-old answer a question without rolling her eyes in that "Why is this person my mother?" way.

Five pounds of chocolate that won't add twenty.

A shower without a child peeking through the curtain with a "Hi ya, Mom!" just as I put razor to my ankle.

A fulltime cleaning person who looks like Brad Pitt.

For my teenager to announce, "Hey, Mom! I got a full scholarship and a job all in the same day!"

A grocery store that doesn't have candy/gum/cheap toys displayed at the checkout line.

To have a family meal without a discussion about bodily secretions.

To be able to step on a plane with my toddlers and not have some pencil-neck-yuppie-geek moan, "Oh, no! Why me?"

Four words: Fisher Price Play Prison

You'd think it was the 2nd coming of the Beatles or something....INSANE!

This is why I'm SO thankful not to have a teen daughter:

Let's Talk Dirty

The next time you cut up chicken for dinner, do it on a clean surface: like your toilet seat. "It has the least amount of bacteria of all the spots in your home," says Charles Gerba, Ph.D., a professor of environmental microbiology at the University of Arizona. In fact, there are 200 times more fecal coliforms—otherwise known as feces bacteria—on the average cutting board than on the typical commode.

Sheets: You never really sleep alone
When you're rolling around between the sheets, you're basically rolling around in your own filth. Studies have found feces, salmonella, and E. coli on bed linens—even ones fresh out of a washer, Gerba says. His research shows that sheets can contain 0.1 gram of feces, salmonella, and E. coli after just one night's rest. That means they'd collectively contain about 10 billion microbes.
Your cleanup: Wash your sheets once a week, and make sure the water is hot

Water bottle: Bacteria to go
What better way to save cash and keep trash out of landfills than to drink from reusable plastic water bottles? Just don't let the bottles become bacterial bombs. Researchers at the University of Calgary found significant levels of coliform bacteria in 9 percent of water bottles used by elementary school students—suggesting that when thirsty youngsters open the bottles with dirty hands, they can dump a host of fecal matter into the water. When they empty the bottle, the damp, warm, closed space becomes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Your cleanup: Since water bottles tend to have narrow necks, they can't undergo a thorough cleaning in the dishwasher. If you must reuse your bottle, wash it with hot, soapy water and use a bottle brush. Feel free to reuse the bottle, as long as you wash it after every use and air-dry both the bottle and cap completely, Gerba says.

Gym bag: Have you ever cleaned it?
Probably not, but you should. Now. Think about it: Even though spray bottles are usually placed around gyms to wipe down equipment, most people don't use them. When you toss your clothes into your gym bag, the sweat from who-knows-how-many people transfers to the bag. Your cleanup: After you remove your gear, sanitize the inside of the bag with a disinfectant wipe. You can stash packets in one of the side pockets so they stay handy but separated from the clothes. But if the bag is machine washable, you should also toss it into the machine every week.

Carpet: Wall-to-wall germs
Your carpet probably contains about 200,000 bacteria per square inch, making it 4,000 times dirtier than your toilet seat. Rugs are botanical and zoological park. Hundreds of thousands of different types of species live there. These invasions occur because the average person sheds about 1.5 million skin cells every hour; these skin cells hit the rug and serve as food for germs. Add in food particles, pollen, and pet dander, and you have a gratis buffet. And since a vacuum cleaner's suction and rotating beater brush don't usually reach the bottom of the carpet, you're bound to have communities of E. coli, salmonella, staphylococcus, and other bacteria down there. Every time you walk on the carpet or roll around on it with your kids, you disrupt the bacteria, bringing some closer to the surface. Your cleanup: Hire a company to do a deep steam-cleaning at least once a year, and consider covering high-traffic areas with machine-washable area rugs.

Remote control: Channels of high-def filth
One day we'll change channels using our brain waves. When that day comes, we'll all be a lot healthier, because 50 percent of television remotes tested positive for rhinovirus, according to a University of Virginia study. The rhinovirus can live there for a few days, and other germs can survive for up to a few months, thanks to the many hideouts found amid the rubber buttons and various LEDs. Ever have popcorn with your DVD movies? You're making matters worse. If you eat something greasy, then cough in your hands and go back to the remote, you've deposited an organism with some oil, which offers the germs protection on a device that isn't cleaned very often to begin with. Your cleanup: Sanitizers don't work well on remotes because you can't get the cleaner into the cracks. Try a plastic-sleeve protector that can be wiped clean daily with a disinfecting wipe or other type of sanitizer. When you're traveling, bring along a few ziplock bags to slip onto the remotes in hotels.

Watchband: Time's up
Ever wonder why leather watchbands start to stink after a few months? That smell is most likely caused by microbes, possibly Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that can cause skin infections. Because leather is porous, it absorbs sweat and skin cells that serve as food for bacterial growth. Your cleanup: Rubber and plastic are safer than leather because they don't absorb sweat as readily, and they can be cleaned with soapy water. If you prefer a leather strap, wipe it down once a week with a leather cleaner

Things that aren't gross
We live in a microbe-laden world. But there are things you don't need to be particularly obsessive about. Here are three of them:

1. Your hairbrush. The only reason you'd want to clean out the brush would be to remove gel or spray residue and unclog hair from the bristle. Infections from hairbrushes are rare, she says. So if those residues and hair knots don't bother you, leave them alone.

2. Your jeans. There are no studied health risks associated with wearing most clothing items several times without washing them. (Your underwear, however, contains feces, and needs to be washed after each wearing.)

3. Your body. Daily showering strips away necessary oils and some of the 150 good kinds of bacteria found on your skin, says New York University microbiologist Philip Tierno Jr., Ph.D. The bacteria guard against pathogens that can cause infections. The average person can shower every other day—or at least skip one shower a week, Tierno says.

Five Signs He's Not Over His Ex

So, you've met your latest Mr. Right Now but something seems a little "off." Are you freaking out for no reason or are your fears real? The love sleuths at Betty Confidential discovered Five Signs He's Not Over His Ex!

1. He Jumped Right Into Your Relationship. Captain Fantastic may say he's over his last love, but if he swung right into your arms chances are he avoided the grieving process entirely. A good clue that he's done is if he can talk about it candidly and admit what went right --and wrong.

2. He Fell For You Before His Relationship Ended. Yes, charmers like JOHN EDWARDS and TIGER WOODS can talk a good game about how their wives don't understand them, but the truth is that's who they're going home to! Remember the old saying --if he does it with you, he'll do it to you!

3. When It Comes to His Ex, He Only Deals in Extremes. Does he snarl when her name comes up or talk about her constantly? Neither are good signs. A good way to discuss the subject is by suggesting you have a conversation about past relationships, what went wrong and what needs to be done differently.

4. He Can't Break the String. If your man has children with another girl or they were together for a long time there's some reason to stay in touch. If neither applies and he likes to correspond, voice your concerns --if he gets defensive that's a major red flag.

5. He Obsesses Over the Remnants of the Relationship. Do you catch him stalking her Facebook page or reminiscing with old photos? Mr. Wonderful is definitely not recovered from the love gone wrong. This doesn't mean your twosome can't work out, but understand you'll be part of the grieving process.

Last Minute Tax Stuff You Need To Know

Your taxes are due today, postmarked by midnight tonight.

Postage meter postmarks aren't acceptable.

It'sthe taxpayer's responsibility to use correct postage. IRS doesn't pay Postage Due.

Forms are available at Post Offices, many public libraries, and online at http://www.irs.gov/

Other Tax Stuff:

If you can't file today, you can file an extension (form 4868) which gets you until Oct 15 to file (though you'll still have to pay any taxes owed, and what you don't pay, you'll have to pay interest on). Hint: if you owe, pay, even if you delay filing. You can even get an installment payment plan from the IRS online.

What's the IRS looking for this year? The number of big corporations audited by the IRS has dropped in the past 20 years. Instead, more midsized and small firms are facing reviews.
It should also be noted that Congress has cut the IRS budget at the same time the agency has hired Higher-priced private contractors to collect tax debts. So what money is there doesn't go as far.

Common mistakes: not signing the return (that's the biggest), bad math (that's the second biggest), forgetting to include a check (if you owe money), and including enough postage. Last thing you want is to get your forms back with insufficient postage, and then get penalized for filing late.

If you owe, don't make your check out to the initials "IRS." That's because if the check falls into the wrong hands, they can change the "IRS" to "MRS" followed by someone's name. Instead you should write out the entire three words "Internal Revenue Service."

Don't have the money to pay what you owe? You can propose an installment plan by attaching Form 9465 to your return. The IRS will answer within 30 days. They'll also charge you 13% interest on past-due balances.

Maybe you're getting a refund? About 78 percent of us will, and usually, it's because we overpaid our taxes all year long. Ideally, you want to pay or be owed within a hundred bucks. To figure that out, you need to ask your employer to revise the tax withholding from your paycheck (the lovely W-4).

Waiting for a refund? You can call the IRS Teletax number to find out if it's ready and on its way, or if there's a problem. Call 800-829-4477.

Questions? There's an IRS taxpayer help line, open from 8 am to 5 pm. 800-829-1040. Keep in mind, though, that helpers don't always give correct info. A Congressional study last year found they were wrong 40 percent of the time, and if you follow their wrong instructions, it's not their fault, so double-check everything.

It's a good idea to photocopy all your tax forms and keep your own records. The IRS loses an average of 2-million documents a year.

For whatever reason, some people never get their refunds. They've moved or provided an incorrect address. The IRS has nearly $100 million in undelivered tax refund checks. Think you're due? Call 'em: 1-800-829-1040, or go to the "Where's My Refund?" section on the IRS home page at irs.gov.

Better Gear Up- Higher Interest Rates are Coming!

After 30 years in which the cost of borrowing money always seemed to go down, the NY Times says American consumers are suddenly going to have to deal with a "sustained period of rising interest rates."

These rising rates are likely to quickly affect the housing market, just as things looked like they were starting to turn around. Higher rates could reverse that trend seeing as though the total cost of a home can rise by as much as 19 percent when interest rates increase one percentage point.

Meanwhile, consumers have already been seeing their credit card rates go up, and they're likely to continue going that route, as will car loans.

The expected increase is due to several reasons, including:
--Rising government debt
--Incentive programs used to keep interest rates low during the financial crisis are coming to an end
--Fear that a recovering economy could bring back inflation

What to do with your IRS Refund

So you just got a big, fat check from the IRS and your thoughts immediately wander to the shoe department, right? Might wanna hold it right there! You might want to consider a few different ideas before heading out for some retail therapy. KIMBERLY LANKFORD of Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine suggests paying off high-interest credit card debt, rebuilding your emergency fund, boosting your retirement savings, building the college account for your precious little ones or throwing that cash into an IRA for the kids.

--Start a Side Business: Many of the world's most profitable ventures were kicked off with less than a thousand-bucks!

--Invest in a Home Improvement Project: Planting a few trees or adding a programmable thermostat can save you thousands in energy costs.

--Open a "Car Replacement Fund": That bucket of bolts won't run forever, ya know. Save a few bucks when you can and you could pay cash for your next vehicle!

--Build a Square Foot Garden: It's the perfect season to plant and you'll save a mint at the grocery store by growing your own produce.

--Give It Away: The thought could be too selfless for most of us, but send that check to charity and you'll probably get a fat deduction next year.

--Pay Extra on Your Mortgage Balance: This one is a no-brainer. Although that big year-end deduction may seem tempting, saving three-thousand on taxes can equate to paying tens of thousands more to your mortgage company!

--Get Your Will Done. Yep, you may have to hand your precious cash over to a lawyer but it's simply a necessity --especially for parents.

--Purchase a Gym Membership: Money talks, baby! Chances are you'll get a month or two free if you pay up front.

--Take a Class: Always wanted to speak fluent Arabic or cook like JULIA CHILD? Use this opportunity to invest --in yourself!

--Go on a "Paid-For" Vacation: Blow the bank away from home. You'll probably enjoy your jaunt a lot more knowing there's no ugly bill after your week in paradise has come to an end.

--Create a "Car Insurance Savings Account": If your deductible is a mere $250 you could reap some financial benefit by raising that number to $1,000 --just make sure you save the money and earn some interest while you're at it.

Teach Your Kids To Be Finacially Savvy

Every parent wants their child to succeed in life --but how do you teach them the value of a dollar? Modern Mom offers a few suggestions for financially-savvy kids!

--Start Early. Experts say the sooner you teach the little ones about cash, the better. A side benefit is that it also gives them real-life experience with another important subject --math!

--Open a Bank Account. This is a great way to start a discussion about money, banking and how to hold on to what you have.

--Pay for Performance. Doing chores for free is an important life skill and shows your little bundles of joy that it's their job to pitch in and help out. If they do "bonus" jobs, hand them a little change as an incentive.

--Goals. Does Junior really want the latest Wii game? Don't automatically make an early-morning run to Wal-Mart and part with your hard-earned duckets. Have them set goals so they can understand the concept of saving.

Snookied

Overnight guy Jay Long wanted to try to give me the Snooki look because he says I kinda look like her. I say he's insane and I also say I'm glad he's a DJ and not a stylist.

What Ever Happened to Elian Gonzalez

After losing his mom while fleeing Communist Cuba in an inner tube in 1999, little six-year-old Elian Gonzalez was caught in the center of an international custody battle between the U.S. and Cuba.

It's been 10 years. So what's Elian been up to? The 16-year-old is now a member of the Young Communist Union of Cuba. Here's what he looks like now:

Spring Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Gonna be perfect spring cleaning weather on Saturday, so if you’re planning on sprucing up the house before the family visits for Easter dinner, here are some tips and tricks for you:

Stinky microwave: Nuke a bowl of water with a few slices of lemon.

Musty smell: Odor-killing light bulbs like Fresh2 and O-ZoneLite

Pet fur on fabric: A spray bottle with one part liquid fabric softener to six parts water. It kills the fabric charge that makes pet hair cling.

Soiled toys, etc: Use the dishwasher for everything from toys to oven grates to refrigerator drawers to shower caddies.

Marked-up scuffed walls: some WD-40 works better than repainting. Spray and wipe away with a damp sponge.

Dusty electronics, including TVs and computer screens: Use one of those dryer sheets. It removes dust and kills the electric charge that attracts grime in the first place.

Prince Charming or Prince Not So Charming?

Congratulations, you've found your latest Prince Charming! A man that's attentive, loving and pretty much perfect, right? Um, maybe not! Glamour magazine claims Major Yum could be harboring a few things deep inside his handsome little head that he'll never, ever tell you! Here's a glimpse at some random thoughts ping-ponging around your man's noggin:

--You're not the only woman I've "been" with at this party.
--Sometimes I miss being single
--My Mom's cooking is definitely better than yours.
--Your best friend is really hot --much like your sister!
--I've gotten dizzy from sucking in my gut --more than once.
--Finally... I’m really, really scared that you’re gonna break my heart one day.

The new spring fashions are hitting the racks!

How are you gonna pull off those sassy, skimpy new finds? Cosmo has gave several ideas of how to trick the eye for a long, lean look --no matter what you're wearing.

--Start from the bottom. Underwear is 50% of battle and Cosmo suggests wearing "Skinny Britches" --a pair of lightweight bike shorts that will smooth out the hind quarters.

--Remember "The Girls." One of the worst offenders is VBB --visible bra band. This is when your brassiere is so tight it digs in your back. Get a professional fitting to find out what size you're supposed to wear. Smaller-chested ladies can ditch the underwire altogether and opt for a supportive, shaping tank top.

--Think of the other half. Wear something clean and simple on the bigger part of your body. If you're bottom-heavy, go for a dark, pencil skirt and doll up your look on top while bigger-busted ladies should stay neutral with a v-neck sweater or cardigan in a subtle color.

--Jeans are meant to be simple. Resist the urge to buy denim with logos on the back pockets, keep away from light, washed-out denim or anything too fancy. A dark wash with medium rise and bit of stretch are likely to the most flattering cut for any body type.

--Get Skinny Hair. The best fashion accessory is available at the beauty parlor and Cosmo suggests adding highlights or lowlights to your hair. The reason is that one block shade of color will --literally--weigh you down!

--Use Your Camera. Take pictures of different outfits and find the most flattering. Save these on your computer or print them out and hang the photos right on your closet.

--How to pose for pictures. Step out with your right foot, slightly turn your body, stick your neck out, hold your shoulders back and place your hand on your right hip for a model-worthy shot.

Fun with Windows 7

So I just bought a new laptop that has Windows 7 and while I have no clue what I’m doing, I’m having a lot of fun playing around with all the cool new features.  So much better than the piece of junk Vista I had.

Uh oh...Swimsuit Season is coming...

Uh oh, girls. It's coming --those two dreaded words that spark fear in hearts of women from 15-to-105 --swimsuit season! But there's no need to go on a crazy, crash diet --the girls at Cosmo magazine have the perfect figure-fixers no matter what your shape.

Small on Top --Less endowed gals should go for a bikini top that features ruffles, sparkles, or any type of "flare." It will distract the eye and give the illusion there's a little more than meets the eye.

A Big Belly --Grab a belted one-piece to create an instant, curvy, hourglass shape ala MARILYN MONROE.

A Bigger Booty --A little more junk in the trunk means you get to wear one of the funkiest suits around. The stylists suggest looking for a bikini bottom that features rings at the seams --it will do a better job of holding in your (ahem) assets.

Busty --A one-piece V-neck suit is a great option for girls with cleavage to spare because it will elongate your torso and minimize "the girls."

When to Toss Old Makeup

Wondering how long you should keep that pile of makeup you have? Here you go:

Concealer: Up to 12 months.

Powder: 2 years.

Pencil eyeliner: Sharpen it regularly and it will last up to 3 years.

Eyeshadow: Also good for up to 3 years.

Foundation:If water-based, up to 12 months. Oil-based, 18 months.

Lip liner: Up to 3 years.

Lipstick: Most experts say 1-2 years. Of course, if it smells bad, toss it -- it's spoiled!

Mascara: This stuff expires the fastest-throw it away after 4 months.

Brushes: Wash 'em every 2-3 months with mild detergent and you can keep 'em until the bristles fall out.

Nail polish: Up to 12 months, depending on the quality and consistency.

Seriously? You just found out you're a millionare and that's all you have to say?!?

Woo Hoo!

Yea! Guest bath is being painted today. Guest bedroom will be painted on Thursday. Excited to see how they turn out. It's the little things, ya know? Here are some pics of the BLAND boring all white before the painting started today:

Have questions about the 2010 Census?

“Constitution” Census Road Tour Bus will be making a two-day stop in York as part of the 2010 Census “Portrait of America” Road Tour.

Look for “Constitution” today (Thursday, March 4) from 5.m. to 9 p.m. and tomorrow (Friday, March 5) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when you visit the Mid-Atlantic Garden Show being held at the Toyota Arena at the York Fair Expo Center.

The 2010 Census “Portrait of America” Road Tour is helping spread the word that the 2010 Census is easy, important and confidential. There will be interactive displays where participants will be able to share images and stories explaining what the census means to them and how it will make a difference in their community. Attendees will also receive information about the census and job opportunities that are available immediately. A sample census form just like the one that will be arriving soon in mailboxes is included in the display. In addition, Census 2010 representatives will be on hand to answer questions.

The purpose of the Census Road Tour is to inspire interest and encourage participation in Census 2010. “Constitution” will make appearances at schools, malls, and community events to distribute information and raise awareness as to the importance of having everyone participate in the 2010 Census. “Constitution” is one of 13 custom built buses traveling throughout the country.

Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony in a Nutshell

In case you missed it (I didn't write this-I found it and it's silly!), this about sums up last night's closing ceremonies for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games:

Some crazy mime/mechanic “fixed it” through the power of facial expression and “dance.” He is an Olympic hero for the ages, and I covet his socks.

I have no idea what these ninth-grade snowboarders are supposed to be spelling on the floor (though I did understand the maple leaf). I love a challenge!

“President Obama will have to pony up for a case of Molson Canadian.”

THE ATHLETES! Apolo! Shani Davis high-fiving the snowpeople!

Ryan Miller is a one-man iPhone commercial — watch your back, Justin Long.

Evan Lysacek, one of the few people not documenting this madness on a small screen of his own, is just lovin’ it (like McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets).

Team Canada’s MOOSE SWEATERS.

Poor Joannie…people just keep posing with her and she has no choice but to keep standing there!
The Americans’ Olympic Cardigans are pretty cute, too.

U.S. athlete (help me out: who?) holds up a homemade “Thank You Canada” sign.

Most of these people look like they could use a beer or five.

Tenor Ben Heppner performs the Olympic Hymm. Huge lip-sync gaffe there? Discuss.

I swear he just sang “Riiiiii-colaaaaa” like in the Ricola commercial. Say it is so!

The Russian national anthem reminds me of Christmas…and The Hunt for Red October. All are about a month long.

Natalia Vodianova, the face of the 2014 Sochi Games, touches a magical snow globe as people roll around in hamster balls and everything sounds like bubbles.

Bob Costas has pretty severe issues with the presentation of Maria Guleghina: “The troika is a Russian carriage pulled by three horses…. At least that’s what they told me…. “I’m looking for the horses….” (Is this Russia’s version of Lady Gaga?)

Crazy podium makes it look like John Furlong, CEO of the VOC, was reading from the Book of Ice. (“This is the word of the snowboard… Thanks be to Alanis.”)

“These were excellent and friendly Games.” –IOC President Jacques Rogge, who got booed when he said they were over

Neil Young sings “Long May You Run,” just like he did during Conan’s final Tonight Show. He just loooooves to extinguish those flames.

Fake snowfall as we zoom in on the torch. Nice. Now turn off the Lindseycam. We get it.

What it means to William Shatner to be a Canadian: “We are a people who know how to make love in a canoe.”

Michael J. Fox is *sorry,* but if he’s watching Canada play the U.S. in hockey, he’s wearing his maple leaf sweater. (Can’t he see they’ve moved on to reindeer?)

Before the camera zoomed in, I really hoped Michael Bublé would turn out to be Stephen Colbert. I know, it wouldn’t make sense! But does anything, really?

I missed Avril Lavigne and Nickelback due to The Marriage Ref and my local news. I’m okay with this.

ALANIS! But not just Alanis. In the middle of Alanis: more Lindseycam. This time they zoomed in so it was just her eyes. Enough! Show Alanis!

Simple Plan and Hedley, really? Where’s Celine? Arcade Fire? Metric? Stars? Where is Rush? Be cool or be cast out, Canada…

Ooh, looking ahead to the 2012 Summer Games in London. Strike up the Love Actually song!

Wanna win dinner for 2?!?

Here's the deal- if you're a Facebook friend of WARM 103.3, click on our photos and tag yourself on our WARM 103.3 logo. Looks like this:



Then change it to your profile pic. Keep it as your profile pic for a week. Next Thursday morning (March 4th), I'll look through our WARM 103.3 Facebook friends list. If you're profile picture is our logo, your name will be put into a hat and drawn at random to win dinner for 2.



Not a WARM 103.3 Facebook friend? You can friend us here: www.facebook.com/warm1033.



Tell your friends too....cuz if you don't win and they do, I'm thinking they'll owe you free dinner, right?

WORST Idol Ever!!!

So yeah, no joke- tonight's Idol was the worst I've EVER seen. At the start of the show, Ryan made the comment that this was the girl's year and they had some of the best talent ever. Um, no. And I'm not the only one who felt that way. Check out this thread from my Facebook. Want in on the discussion? You can Facebook friend me here (www.facebook.com/tracitaylor)

Traci Taylor-can't take it anymore and am turning it off. Tonight's Idol is SO bad that its not even worth watching. What a joke.

Trisha Smith-my ears are bleeding! I agree with absolutely everything Simon has said!

Linda Milliron-Coveleski- yeah I so thought about doing that to, but I have to stay up anyway to wait for the hub to get up for work....so I might as watch misery.....lol

Traci Taylor- You'll have to let me know how my dreds girl does. I just can't watch this anymore. Worst Idol I've ever seen and I've been watching since the first show.

Linda Milliron-Coveleski- I sure will let you know....have a great night

Chris Brzozowski Free- Hand in my Pocket! She ROCKED!

Trisha Smith- I AGREE CHRIS!!! SHE WAS GREAT!

Linda Milliron-Coveleski- crystal your "dreds" did good......

Traci Taylor Yeah- I caved and kept it on to see her. I'm a sucker for Alanis and think Crystal did a great job on that song. Only girl tonight I actually liked.

Marcie Simkins- I thought I was the only one who thought it sucked....

Let's hope the boys do better tonight. If they don't, I think I may boycott the whole show this year.

Where's The Erase Button?!?

Ever have one of those days you wish you could rewind, erase and start all over? That was my day yesterday. It started out ok, but somewhere took a wrong turn and ended up horribly. What an emotional wreck I was. I don't know...maybe it was just because I wasn't feeling well or because I was tired, but everything seemed to heap on my shoulders all at once and I was completely overwhelmed. I'm thinking the 2 or 3 pots of coffee I drank didn't help...I still have the jitters today. So glad yesterday is over and today is a new day and (yea) I'm not feeling overwhelmed.

World's most fattening recipes....

Hate dieting? Then, this is the cookbook for you. The Daily Telegraph says a collection of the world's most fattening recipes have been assembled for a new website. Thisiswhyyourefat.com features instructions on preparing dishes like chocolate covered bacon maple doughnut bars, funnel cake fries with icing dip, and something called the double coronary burger.If that's not enough, how about a pork belly stuffed with bacon, sausage and ground pork, wrapped in more bacon, and sculpted in the shape of a pig? The website also invites fans to submit their own pictures and recipes. Have to warn you though...if you're like me and have a weak stomach, this might not be for you....I checked it out this morning and let's just say...it's a good thing I didn't eat breakfast because it could have been worse.

Love Kit

If you heard me talking about the love kit for your single friends this morning, here's where you can pick up your very own gag gift for that special single friend:

http://www.knockknock.biz/

Give Kids a Smile :D

More kids than ever before are starting school with tooth decay because they've never had a dental checkup. That's why the American Dental Association is encouraging parents to sign their kids up for a free dental exam through the Give Kids a Smile program. Here's the info if you're interested:

http://givekidsasmile.ada.org/professionals.asp

Wanna be a Gleek?!?

Think you could be "Glee's" next Rachel Berry?

Good news for you! Fox has renewed "Glee" for a second season and what's even better news for you (IF you can sing) is that "Glee" is gonna be doing a nationwide casting search starting this month to try to find 3 more people to join the show.

Wanna learn more and apply? You're gonna need to go here:

http://www.fox.com/glee/audition/

If you make it, I hope you'll remember who told you about it! :o)